Buzz
Following a recent closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Joshua Tree National Park has now closed two campgrounds again. According to the Los Angeles Times, the reason this time is heightened activity from aggressive bees.
Joshua Tree National Park's Jumbo Rocks and Cottonwood campgrounds have been overrun by hostile honey bees, which are different from the infamous murder hornets that gained attention in May. Visitors reported the bees swarming around campsites and vehicles, creating a hazardous environment.
David Smith, the superintendent of Joshua Tree, explained to the Los Angeles Times that these bees are typical honey bees and a natural component of the desert environment. While encountering a few bees is usual, large swarms can pose risks, particularly when they are dehydrated. Thirsty bees often seek water from unconventional sources like trash bags, picnic tables, and vehicle AC units. By temporarily evacuating the campgrounds, park officials aim to encourage the bees to seek water from natural sources, reducing the risk to visitors.
As stated on Joshua Tree's National Park Service page, the Jumbo Rocks campground will stay shut until July 23. The Cottonwood section is also temporarily closed, with staff striving to reopen it soon, though no specific date has been announced. These closures are expected to make finding a campsite at Joshua Tree more challenging this summer. Until September 4, all available campsites will operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
